Duke Energy Corp - DUK STOCK NEWS

Duke Energy is reinforcing its commitment to North Carolina's communities by allocating $500,000 in grants for the second year through its Hometown Revitalization Program, aimed at supporting local microgrant initiatives. The funding, awarded to 20 communities, will provide each community with $25,000 to assist small businesses, with microgrants ranging from $500 to $2,500. Since the pandemic began, Duke has contributed over $1.5 million to aid small business recovery. The grant application is open until May 31, with announcements planned for August.

Duke Energy has announced a grant allocation of $120,000 to 26 economic development organizations in Indiana aimed at job creation and investment. This funding, part of the company's Partnership Program, will enhance local marketing strategies and economic growth initiatives. Since 2017, Duke Energy has contributed nearly $600,000 to support Indiana's economic development. Organizations receiving funds include the Shelby County Development Corporation, which plans to promote its community in Japan to attract investment.

Duke Energy has launched the Energy Industry Second Chance Pilot Program in South Carolina, aiming to reduce recidivism by helping former prisoners reintegrate into the workforce. The initiative provided nearly $27,000 in funding from the Duke Energy Foundation to cover training and essential services like transportation and financial literacy. Participants received on-the-job training in utility vegetation management and will continue with Lewis Tree Service post-training, addressing both labor shortages and community reintegration.

Duke Energy Florida has announced a $100,000 donation to Coastal Conservation Association Florida (CCA Florida), adding to a previous $150,000 contribution. This funding supports marine fisheries conservation, education, and research efforts, notably the deployment of new artificial reefs along the Gulf of Mexico. The donation was revealed at CCA Florida's banquet and aligns with Duke's commitment to enhancing Florida's marine habitats. To date, Duke Energy and CCA Florida have released over 100,000 redfish and spotted sea trout to improve fishing opportunities.

Duke Energy Foundation announced grants exceeding $300,000 to support 24 K-12 education programs in Indiana. This initiative aims to assist communities recovering from pandemic-related disruptions, emphasizing STEM education and support for underrepresented populations. Over the last three years, the foundation has awarded more than $1.1 million to enhance educational opportunities statewide. Notable projects include hands-on science kits and professional development for teachers, reflecting a commitment to fostering student success in an evolving educational landscape.

Duke Energy has completed three new battery storage projects in Florida, totaling nearly 34 megawatts. The facilities located in Highlands, Gilchrist, and Gulf counties aim to modernize grid operations and improve reliability during outages. The projects include an 18-megawatt site at Lake Placid Solar Power Plant, an 11-megawatt facility in Trenton, and a 5.5-megawatt site at Cape San Blas. Duke Energy will operate six battery sites in Florida by the end of 2022, totaling 50 megawatts, part of a larger $2 billion investment in solar generation and battery technology in the state.

Duke Energy is assisting Indiana customers with energy bill management by highlighting available state and federal programs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides federal aid for households earning below certain income thresholds. Additionally, the 2-1-1 service connects customers to local agencies for various support needs, while the Share the Light Fund offers direct assistance for electric bills. Duke Energy also promotes energy-saving solutions to help customers save costs. The company serves approximately 860,000 customers in Indiana.